The LMACTrach, a new approach for endotracheal intubation: a pilot study in 100 patients undergoing elective surgery

Background: The LMA CTrach system is a new device for airway management and endotracheal intubation under direct vision in both anticipated and unexpected difficult intubation situations. Methods: We used this system in 100 patients undergoing general anesthesia for different types of elective surgeries. After randomly selecting the patients for intubation with this new device, the airway characteristics, height, weight, dental overbite and thyromental distance were all evaluated before induction. Our goal was to explore primarily the success rate of intubation with LMACTrach. Results: We were able to insert LMA CTrach and provide optimal ventilation in all 100 patients. Nonetheless, successful tracheal intubation was performed in 95 patients. Among our patients, 2 had Mallampati grade IV airways with short necks, body mass index (BMI) > 30, and without the capability to bite their upper lips. Amazingly both patients were intubated with this method, proving a device as an assuring approach in cases of difficulty with ventilation and intubation. Of all patients, 44 were females and 56 males. The mean age was 34 ± 2 years. BMI measured for all patients was 20-25 except for two cases who had BMI > 30. Conclusion: Since the LMA CTrach provided us with direct view of the larynx and vocal cords during intubation even in difficult cases, it can be assumed that this device is a precious aid as equal as fiberoptic bronchoscopy for the anesthesiologists.